The Global Tourism Business Association (GTBA) is once again at the forefront of fostering international collaboration and inclusive travel as it hosts the 2nd Halal and Muslim-Friendly Tourism Forum on July 16, 2025, in Cebu City. The forum, held in conjunction with the 7th Global Travel Exchange and B2B Roadshow, is co-presented by the Department of Tourism (DOT) and will feature a distinguished lineup of dignitaries and speakers, including:
- DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco
- Malaysia Ambassador H.E. Malik Melvin Castelino
- Indonesia Ambassador H.E. Agus Widjojo
- Brunei Ambassador H.E. Megawati Manan
- Cambodia Ambassador H.E. Sin Saream
- Laos Ambassador H.E. Sonexay Vannaxay
This prestigious gathering reflects GTBA’s commitment to amplifying the Philippines’ presence in sustainable and culturally inclusive tourism by catering to the growing global market of Muslim travelers.
🕌 Positioning the Philippines as a Muslim-Friendly Destination GTBA has long advocated for broadening the scope of the tourism sector by highlighting underdeveloped yet high-potential segments—such as halal tourism. By investing in halal-certified services and developing Muslim-friendly destinations, the association envisions the Philippines becoming a prime travel choice for Muslim visitors.
“We’ve built strong partnerships with embassies and national tourism organizations from Muslim-majority countries. Our goal is to celebrate diversity and provide meaningful, inclusive travel experiences,” said GTBA President Michelle Taylan. “It’s essential for us to champion halal tourism—not just for growth, but to share the rich beauty of our country with more travelers across cultures and faiths.”
🤝 Strengthening Regional and Diplomatic Partnerships Earlier this year, Taylan and event partner Oneklik Events met with Ambassadors Castelino and Widjojo, along with the Indonesian embassy delegation, to explore new avenues for tourism and business cooperation. The dialogue focused on forging deeper ties between their nations and the Philippines, while also laying the groundwork for the upcoming Travel Sale Expo 2025 and other halal-focused initiatives.
GTBA leaders also held a strategic dialogue with DOT Secretary Frasco to align national efforts with GTBA’s agenda for inclusive travel. “We’ve already set the vision into motion. Now it’s time to follow through with concrete plans and collaborative actions,” Taylan noted. “We’re optimistic about the cultural and economic rewards that will come from welcoming more of our Muslim brothers and sisters to experience the Philippines.”